Share:

Military veterans get free horse riding lessons from Whispering Manes to help with depression and stress

WSVN — Our military servicemen and women face challenges in battle most of us can’t imagine. But for some of them, life can also be a battle once they come home. In tonight’s special report, 7’s Jeff Lennox shows us how one group is enlisting the help of horses to get veterans back in the saddle.

James Mosely/Marine Corps Veteran: "USMC, Marine Corps."

Miguel Arbesu: "The Air Force for three years."

James Mosely and Miguel Arbesu are proud to have served our country, but they say returning to civilian life was one of their toughest assignments.

Miguel Arbesu: "I had a nervous breakdown. That was the first issue I had with my anxiety and depression, which is what brought me to the VA."

Many returning vets suffer from anxiety, depression, sadness and anger. Many try to fight it out on their own, shutting out the rest of the world.

Miguel Arbesu: "Stay in my house and do nothing."

Traditional treatment has always centered around counseling and support groups, but some service members are finding the best course of treatment in a corral.

James Mosely: "I never assumed that a horse could make you feel more relaxed and have such a focus on your own personality."